“Stop corrupt practices and abuse of power now or be prepared to face the brunt of MACC enforcement."

New Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Chief Commissioner Dzulkifli Ahmad, 48, in sounding out the warning, called on those involved in corruption to surrender voluntarily for a possible lighter sentence.

“I have opened this opportunity, come any time before action is taken. If action is taken, it will be too late to see us. For those who are feeling the heat, they can come.

"We will study and discuss with the Attorney-General's Chambers for a lighter sentence as the question of prosecution is under its purview," he said in an exclusive interview with Bernama at his office in Putrajaya yesterday.

Even though the overture was offered in a calm tone, the firmness of the new MACC chief was clear. He also stressed that there would be no discrimination in its efforts to flush out corruption in the country.

Dzulkifli, who took over from Abu Kassim Mohamed on Aug 1, said his primary focus upon taking the helm of the commission would be to enhance integrity in the public and private sectors.

He said the commission meant business and warned government and private offices would be raided if there was evidence of corrupt practices.

"Wait, soon there will be friendly visits from the new MACC chief commissioner," he quipped.

He said being on the job for two weeks was enough to understand the commission and it was time to act.

"I'm a man with of few words. I do not talk a lot. I advise those involved in corruption to stop immediately.

"This is not an empty warning. For those who have been receiving incomes other than what is legitimate, please stop," he asserted.

- Bernama